Featured image by Dan LeFebvre on Unsplash
Not that long ago, air conditioning was only for the privileged few. Others sweltered when the weather was hot. Now, however, artificially cooled air is the indoor norm. In fact, you’d be hard pressed to find a home or an office building without it.
Air conditioners not only keep people more comfortable in hot weather, they reduce the risk of heat-related health problems such as stroke and dehydration. Air conditioning is better for people with allergies and asthma, too, helping to reduce their symptoms. This is because a good HVAC system filters out a lot of outdoor pollutants.
However, business owners in particular need to be cognizant of the hazards of air conditioning. If your employees complain about headaches, dizziness, dry throat, and itchy eyes, particularly in the summertime, your office HVAC system could be at fault.
Invest in a Well-Made System
If your operating budget is constrained you might be tempted to purchase an inferior system. Remember that old adage, though: “You get what you pay for.” An inferior air conditioning system can cause you more headaches—literally—than you bargained for.
In wintertime, mold can grow unseen in your workplace, regardless of how clean everything looks to the naked eye. Then, when your air conditioning unit clicks on in the hotter months, it can blow spores from that mold all over the building. In addition, a poorly made system can be a breeding ground for mold, too. This is because moisture from condensation can accumulate on the coils and fan blades.
For the sake of your employees’ good health and productivity as well as your own, invest in a quality air conditioning system for your workplace.
Take Active Measures to Minimize Problems
A well-maintained air conditioning system is key to a productive workplace in the summer months.
When employees are comfortable, they can be more productive. Extreme heat has a negative effect on both mental and physical functioning, and a good, well-maintained system can go a long way toward promoting an efficient workplace.
Lower temperatures discourage the proliferation of insects and other pests, and a clean air conditioning system can also reduce the number of allergens in the air, WiredShopper, a renowned website mentions.
To keep problems to a minimum, change the system’s filters regularly, and make sure exhaust fans are working properly. Routine service by a qualified technician will help to keep your air conditioning system operating optimally.
Further, keep thermostat settings moderate. Also, never store cleaners or other chemicals near the air conditioning system. This is because its fans can spread dangerous fumes throughout the building.
Know Your Options
A better air conditioning system will likely be more expensive than an inferior one. However, you’ll have your choice of options with a superior system. For instance, you could purchase a system that you can program to maintain a set temperature, regardless of fluctuations in the weather outside of the building. This option will benefit you and your employees. Plus, it’s better for the planet as well.
Additionally, a well-designed air conditioning system will most likely be quieter and more efficient. This too, will lead to greater workplace productivity and happier employees overall.
